Lippi speaks up for Totti

Marcello Lippi has weighed in with his opinion on the dispute between Francesco Totti and Walter Sabatini at Roma.

The former Italy Coach, who led the country to World Cup success in 2006 with Totti in attack, spoke to Il Messaggero glowingly of the No 10 as an example to others, and a loyal servant to his club.

"I speak based on my personal experience. It is a different experience to those working at club level, but just as intense and long if you consider the preparations ahead of and during the World Cup in Germany.

"He has always been an amazing guy, humble both in dealing with the Coaches and teammates."

Part of the controversy surrounding the latest fall-out at the capital club surrounds prospective general manager Franco Baldini's reported comments that labelled Totti as lazy.

Lippi, however, only spoke of the great work-ethic and commitment from the playmaker, stating he was: "impressed by the determination that was put in every day.

"There was never a misunderstanding. Whether I put him on the bench, or brought him on for just half an hour, he always calmly accepted my decisions."

The 63-year-old offered his advice on resolving the issue, ironically as Sabatini and Totti reportedly met today to clear the air:

"I have always chosen open dialogue, explaining to him any decision, and he always understood and accepted."